Keely Hodgkinson

Keely Hodgkinson is a middle-distance running Olympic Champion.

Specialising in the 800 meters, Keely won Gold in the women’s 800m final at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Early Life and Background

Born on March 3, 2002, in Leigh, Greater Manchester, she has quickly risen to become one of the most successful and promising athletes in her discipline.

Keely grew up in a sports-oriented environment, which fostered her love for athletics from a young age. She initially participated in various sports, including swimming and gymnastics, but ultimately found her passion in running. She joined Leigh Harriers Athletics Club and began training under the guidance of Trevor Painter, who would play a pivotal role in her development as an elite athlete.

Career Breakthrough

Keely Hodgkinson’s breakthrough came in 2020 when she won the British Indoor Championships at just 18 years old, a significant achievement that announced her arrival on the national stage. This victory was followed by solid performances that year, setting the stage for her rapid ascent in world athletics.

Keely is known for her exceptional tactical awareness, speed, and finishing kick, which have been crucial in her success at the highest levels of competition. Her ability to stay composed under pressure and deliver strong finishes has made her a formidable competitor.

2021: A Landmark Year

The year 2021 marked a significant turning point in Hodgkinson’s career. She started the year by breaking the British indoor 800-meter record, previously held by Jenny Meadows, with a time of 1:59.03. This achievement set the tone for what would become a stellar season.

In 2021, Keely competed in the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where she produced a remarkable performance in the 800-meter final. She won the silver medal at 1:55.88, setting a new British record. As a result, she became the first British woman to win an Olympic medal in the 800 meters since 2004. Her time was the fastest by a teenager in nearly half a century, highlighting her potential on the global stage.

2022 and Beyond

Hodgkinson continued her upward trajectory in 2022, winning gold at the European Championships in Munich and silver at the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon. This solidified her position as one of the top middle-distance runners in the world. She also claimed silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, demonstrating consistency across competitions.

Keely won the women’s 800-metre final at the 2024 Paris Olympics, ending her wait to secure a global title.

Keely Hodgkinson’s rapid rise to the top of middle-distance running has inspired a new generation of athletes worldwide. With her youth, talent, and determination, she is expected to continue her dominance in the 800 meters.

Her achievements at such a young age have made her a role model for aspiring athletes, and her athletic future looks exceptionally bright. Whether setting new records, winning more medals, or inspiring others, Keely Hodgkinson is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars in world athletics today.